La tops a pair of 43’s

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, 14 July, Bangpra –2-Persons Scramble
1st Russell Exley & La Keith 50pts
2nd Trevor Schirmer & B.J. Smith 49pts
3rd Barry Winton & Stephen Beard 47pts
4th Derek Holt & Rod Howett 46pts
5th Rodney Hayes & Tom McCarthy 45pts
It takes some doing to keep Russell Exley and La Keith off the top spot in the pairs scrambles, having won three of the last four, and this day’s tournament was no exception. Even with the ex champion pairing of Trevor Schirmer and B.J. Smith back to near their old form., they were still not quite good enough to change the order with Russell and La edging them out by a single shot.
Effort of the day must go to Barry Winton and Stephen Beard, with Barry playing his first game after an eight week lay off and Stephen still struggling to get back to past form, they still managed to slip into third only a couple of shots adrift. They will surely be a force to be reckoned with when Stephen can get off the tee and Barry can putt.
Derek Holt and Rod Howett were also in good form and although just outside the prizes, their efforts demanded a mention as did those of Rodney Hayes and Tom McCarthy a further shot back in fifth place.
There were no 2’s competitions due to the format of the day.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed back Del Bailey, Fred Land, Rod Howett, Kazuo Takimoto, and also to two old members who had been off due to illness, Rick Holmes and Barry Winton who had both been hospitalised.
Wednesday, 16 July, Khao Kheow - Stableford
1st La Keith 43pts
2nd Phil Groves 33pts
3rd Serge Straeten 33pts
4th Tony Thorne 32pts
5th Suichi Kodaka 32pts
6th Barry Winton 31pts
Playing from the yellows is never an easy day at Khao Kheow but on this day, following an overnight drenching, it would prove to be a long and tiring walk with very little reward.
The exception was La Keith, who in playing from the white tees swept away all before her by a clear ten strokes and on the way carded the best gross of the day. And with several single figure handicappers in the field, that was some achievement.
Phil Groves and Serge Straeten had to be separated by count back for second and third with Tony Thorne and Suichi Kodaka doing the same for fourth and fifth and Barry Winton in sixth with another steady round.
Suichi Kodaka and Stephen Beard shared the second division 2’s, whilst Barry Traynor, Trevor Schirmer and Barry Winton with two, did the same in the first division.
Prior to the prize giving Jens Gunnarsson, Gary Bingham and Peter Carroll were welcomed back.
Monthly Matchplay Knockout
The Semi Finals of the monthly knockout matchplay were played between La Keith, who won her match with Tony Thorne 7 and 6, and Russell Exley, who won 3 and 2 over Glynn Nicholas.
Tony was very unlucky to find the day’s winner La in tip top form, as she closed him out early with a wonderful display of golf from the white tees that included a back nine of two-over gross with eight pars and one double bogey. Glynn suffered a severe loss of form as he also went down to a very ordinary round by Russell.
The big one is set for Monday, 21 July, with Russell off the whites and La off the yellows at Phoenix, with the two scramble team mates getting ready for the mother and father of all matches to determine who will be the inaugural winner of this very popular event.
Friday 18 July, The Emerald - Stableford
1st Chris Knapp 43pts
2nd Barry Traynor 38pts
3rd Al; Keith 38pts
4th Fred Land 37pts
5th Barry Winton 35pts
6th Rod Howett 34pts
Another day when the clouds just threatened but did not disturb the day’s enjoyment, and even helped by keeping the course cool. It all meant another good day at The Emerald where the greens are now nearly back to their usual speed following the recent coring and dressing.
It’s been 25 rounds since The Cap’n last played to his handicap, and having risen two shots during that time, Chris Knapp was due one. And get one he did, in a fair amount of style and with the usual panache that he applies in all his golf, with a crushing five-shot win over a class field gearing up for the IPGC Club Championship due to be held the following week. In the post match interview he attributed his success to “practice and bending the elbow at every opportunity until one drops.” A lesson for all aspiring students off the game.
Barry Traynor, following a poor week so far at the pay window, came back to form with a bang as he took second ahead of Al Keith by three on the count back.
Fred Land took his first podium spot since his return, a shot back and ahead of Barry Winton, who again figured well in the final scoring lists. Rod Howett also continued his good run of results with the final mention of the day.
Rod Howett had the only ‘2’ in the second division and Barry Traynor with one and Russell Exley with two shared the first division pool.
Back at The Haven The Doc welcomed back Brian Kelly and Dave Thomas before presenting the prizes.

Parker in pole position

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, 14 July, The Emerald - Medal
1st Geoff Parker (16) net 65
2nd Paul Edgar (17) net 69
3rd PJ Redmond (20) net 70
The Bunker Boy’s played a Medal round at an Emerald course in pretty good nick apart from the grass on the greens being long - and therefore slow.
PJ Redmond thought he was in with a chance of winning with a two-under par round but found he would only be third as Paul Edgar took second place with a three-under score to take the runner up spot. But neither of these two could get anywhere near Geoff Parker who had one of those rounds that only come along once in a while. Geoff took the honours with a fantastic seven-under par net 65, and if he hadn’t missed a couple of two-footers it could have been even better!
Geoff also took one of the near pins to make it a great day of golf for him, Alan Sullivan and Paul Smith (2) took the others.
Wednesday, 16 July, Pattana Golf and Sports Resort - Stableford
1st Colin Greig (14) 36pts
2nd PJ Redmond (20) 34pts
3rd Paul Smith (2) 33pts
4th Geoff Parker (16) 31pts
Playing stableford format, PJ Redmond had another good day’s golf scoring 34 points but had to settle for runner up spot behind Colin Greig who won with 36 points. Third place went to Paul Smith 33 points and Geoff Parker took fourth with 31.
Geoff’s fourth place took him into the lead for the ‘golfer of the month’ title but Gerry Cooney, Mashi Kaneta and Paul Smith are all close behind so he has to keep on his toes for the last few games of the month.
Geoff won a near pin prize again along with Paul Smith, Tony Robbins and Colin Greig.
Friday, 18 July, Greenwood - Medal
1st Geoff Parker (16) net 71
2nd Alan Sullivan (14) net 72
3rdPaul Smith (2) net 73
A medal round was held at Greenwood on Friday and the in form Geoff Parker did it again, putting himself firmly in the driving seat in the ‘golfer of the month’ competition. Geoff won today with a one-under par net 71, Alan Sullivan came in second with a level par net 72 and Paul Smith stayed in touch with Geoff by taking third place with a net 73.
Near pins went to John Graham, Alan Sullivan, John McDonald and Dave Ashman.

Urrutia wins 1st Pattaya Adult Tennis Tournament

The final of the 1st Pattaya Adult International Tennis Tournament, held between May 23-25, was between Alvaro Urrutia from Chile and Ricky Martial from France with the winner Alvaro by a score of 6-2 6-2. The backdraw winner was Chalad Salungsuk who played Harry Fletcher.

The 1st Pattaya Adult Tennis Tournament attracted a wide range of local tennis players.

The event had 4 seeded players with 1 upset, Sylvester Alamdar from Thailand defeating the #3 seed Jeff Conard from Hawaii, 8-6.
This is the third tournament held in Pattaya by the International Players Academy that hosted a 32 draw open competition. The tournament was appealing because it combined 28 men with 4 ladies in the same draw. Tennis players from Europe, USA, Philippines, Thailand, Chili, and Canada participated with ages ranging from 16 to 60.
CJ Colburn said, “The reason why this tournament attracted the young and old, men and ladies was because the tournament held a backdraw round, similar to an A and B group which allowed each person to play at least 2 times. I would like to raise the level of interest in tennis through teaching and coaching here in Pattaya and hopefully hold more tournaments like this one in the future.”
Wilson was the official sponsor and held a raffle for tennis equipment for participating players. The event was organized by Director CJ Colburn and Head Referee Gary Sukuma through the International Players Academy.

Bob wins the Medal

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, July 13, Green Valley - Monthly Medal
A Flight
1st Bob Van Mol net 68
2nd Benn Nelson net 68
3rd Pat Regan net 68
B Flight
1st Kath Doody net 73
2nd Terry Phur net 74
3rd Bob Lindburg net 76
Near Pins: #2 Bill Broscahrt, #9 Kath Doody, #12 Owen Mcsweeny, #16 Chaten Patel.
2’s: Chaten Patel, Benn Nelson and Bob Van mol
Hidden-Six winners: 1. Peter Barathy, 2. Colin Davis, 3. Kath Doody
Thirty-six golfers from Lewiinski’s made the usual Sunday trip to play this month’s monthly medal.
Taking third place in A Flight on a three-way count back was the man from Co Dublin Pat Regan with a net 68. Second place went to Benn “TEX” Nelson, playing off his new handicap, and a trip back for readjustment.
Leading the rest home with the best of the back nines was Bob Van mol. Bob sportingly declared, as he handed in his card, that his handicap was 9 and not 10. Well they say honesty is the best policy, and it was for Bob.
B Flight was a different story with Bob Lindburg, the Guru of Green Valley, taking third with a net76. Two shots in front of Bob and in second place with a net 74 was our old pal Terry Phur. Well if Bob Van mol was the leading man, it makes sense that there should be a leading lady right? Well there she was, the radiant Kathy Doody, who carded a sparkling net 73 to take the honours in B Flight.
On a side note Bob also joins the list to contend the Gold medal later in the year.
Tuesday, July 15, The Emerald - Stableford
A Flight
1st Tom Breslin (21) 37pts
2nd Owen Mcsweeny (14) 35pts
While Lewiinski’s match team played the OK Corral in the I P G C Match league, the rest of Lewiinski’s played a stableford comp.
Tom Breslin won the day with a splendid 37 points and second spot was filled by Owen Mcsweeny with 35, but only after a count back with the Irishman from Co Wicklow ,Joe Tynan.
There were no 2’s recorded so it was to be a rollover at Bangpra.
The team event, turned out to be a thrilling game, and a win for Lewiinski’s by four and a half points to three and a half. Lewiinski’s last two players had to win their games to achieve the win. The game was played in a great spirit, and the night was finished off in style back at the OK Corral. Guess whose back in town?
Wednesday, July 16, Bangpra - Stableford
A Flight
1st Eddie Beilby (15) 40pts
2nd Chris Field (27) 38pts
Bangpra welcomed a small Lewiinski’s group to play a stableford comp on a very hot and humid day. The Monkeys were scarce and very quiet; perhaps they had spotted the Eagle.
Taking second place was Chris Field with a super 38 points but two points better in first was Eddie” The Eagle” Beilby. Something must have ruffled Eddie’s feathers, as he shot a very impressive 40 points.
Pat Adland notched the only ‘2’ of the day to claim the rollover.
Back at Lewinski’s it was drinks all round, as first Pat and then Eddie rang the bell. ‘One Ball’ missed all the fun, as he was at Nick Strasshine’s kipper and lager Barbeque, mind you that was fun too.
Friday, July 18, St. Andrews - Stableford
A Flight
1st Nick Payne (14) 39pts
2nd Seamus Cotter (11) 38pts
3rd Pat Reagan (10) 35pts
B Flight
1st Ed Adams (15) 39pts
2nd Chris Field (27) 35pts
3rd Chaten Patel (15) 30pts
A much larger Lewiinski’s group turned out on Friday to play the St Andrews par 74 layout.
The B Flight winner with a co-best score of the day was Ed Adams with a great 39 points. Second place was filled by Chris Field on 35 points and third spot went to Chaten Patel who scraped home on 30 points.
Finishing in third place in A Flight was the Dublin man Pat Reagan on 35 points, but only by virtue of a better back nine over Rick Zanoni. In second place was the right honorable Seamus Cotter, carding a fine 38points, but it was left to Nick Payne to put a stop to the Mick’s, with a super co-top score of 39 points to take first. Where’s the Wireless?
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattayaland Soi 1, Beach Road, Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in and add your name to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764. Transport for the golf is provided.

Kevin takes it by one on tough day Pattaya C.C.

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

The Three Sisters group playing at the Pattaya Country Club were once again blessed with great weather. Unfortunately, it did not necessarily equate to great golfing scores.

Tuesday’s winner Kevin (left) with runner-up Bob Benda.

Kevin Worl, with 38 points, who was chased all the way by Bob Benda on 37 were the exceptions. Sus Ige was not far behind with a 35 but after that the scores were in the 20s.
The groups tend to go out early so there is little run on the fairways and the greens are still wet with dew. Come 8am the fairways and greens begin drying out so putts must again be adjusted. Several members also made positive contributions to the course’s water hazards.
The usual post-golf kibitzing went on at Caddy Shack II while terrific sausage hot dogs disappeared at a rapid pace. Everyone in the 20s is hoping for a better showing next week.

Keith and Craig top the field at Green Valley

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Monday, July 14, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
Playing Monday and Wednesday this week we linked up on Monday with Eastside Friendly Golf Society and some Green Valley regulars for a combined event were we split into two divisions. As usual the course was in excellent condition.

Keith Hodges (far left) and Craig Duncan (back right) with some friendly Green Valley restaurant staff.

In the lower handicaps division, Craig Duncan (5) showed that in spite of three-putting four times he had come to grips with golf in Thailand by carding a three-over par gross on a course that was new to him and he won the day with 38 points. Jeff Wylie (5) was runner up on 36 points whilst Rich Murphy (21) and Tiger Jumparnit (5) were third and fourth with 33 and 31 points respectively.
In the higher handicaps division Keith Hodges (23) took top spot with 37 points, Keith being followed by Yves Philibert (25), Peter Mills (23) and Bill Jones (31) with 36, 34 and 33 points respectively.
Near pins were won by Rich Murphy, Bill Jones and Bob Drumm whilst Keith Hodges nabbed the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Wednesday, July 16, Treasure Hill (White Tees) - Stableford
Six stalwarts made the trip to this excellent course where Jeff Wylie (5) had the best day with 32 points and two near pins whilst David Gardner (9) had the second best day with 28 points and one near pin. Willy Nachbur earns a mention by snatching the remaining near pin away from Jeff and David.
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the format please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.

Sherwood shines at Burapha

PSC golf from the Outback Golf Bar

Monday, 14 July, Burapha - Stableford
C & D again this week, from the white tees; and the summer eclectic is now starting to warm up on this course. Whilst B1 & B2 are up country, doing whatever one does when one goes up country; Neil Hughes has romped in with not only another good score of 37 to take second in Div A, but also notched up another 6 points on his eclectic total. He now leads by 2 from Joachim and shares the lead on the A & B course.
A full compliment of 49 Outbackers couldn’t stop Mark Sherwood from taking first overall today after producing yet another good round of 71 gross, amassing 41 stableford points. Rosco continued his run of form to grab second overall on count back from the fast improving Kevin Moraghan.
Don Frances took the top spot in Div A with 38 points, and the best of the girls who played with Capt’ Bob was Am North, who took third with 36. Bob, who had one of only two 2’s today said, “Am could easily have had three 2’s today and Mod should have had one as well.” The old ‘could haves’ and ‘should haves’, eh?
Welcome to John Shroder and Ian Hart today; and well played John, easily beating the Div C field by a clear 4 points with 36. There was a three-way count back to split the remaining places, eventually going to Barry Chadbourn & Peter Gibson.
Overall
1st Mark Sherwood (4) 41pts
2nd Rosco Langoulant (16) 39pts
Div A (0-13)
1st Donald Frances (11) 38pts
2nd Neil Hughes (10) 37pts
3rd Amphun North (13) 36pts
Div B (14-18)
1st Kevin Moraghan (17) 39pts
2nd Murray Hart (17) 36pts
3rd Nick Payne (14) 33pts
Div C (19+)
1st John Schroder (20) 36pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 32pts
3rd Peter Gibson (28) 32pts
2’s: Capt’ Bob & Nick Payne
Tuesday, 15 July, Phoenix - Stableford
Another quick round for the six ‘early riser’ Outbackers who took advantage of Sports Day to play Mountain and Lake nines, which as usual were in excellent shape.
Sid Ottaway and Mick Leighton joined us for the first time with Sid coming out on top with just 32 points off his 24 handicap. He was followed home by regular ‘early riser’ Barry Chadbourn with 31 points. The rest were not so good!
There were no 2’s today so it is a rollover to next week.
Want to play a quick round in good company? Then join us at Phoenix. Outback ‘early risers’ meet every Tuesday at Phoenix at 07:30 for an 8 am tee time with the presentation in the Clubhouse. We are usually on our way back to wherever, by 1 pm. Sign-up at Outback or give Bob a call
1st Sid Ottaway (24) 32pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 31pts
3rd Nigel Cannon (23) 30pts
Wednesday, 16 July, Siam Plantation - Stableford
Moved from our usual Friday spot, because of the Buddha Lent holiday, 35 Outbackers enjoyed the complexity of the Pineapple and Sugarcane nines.
Once again, the course proved to be a tough test; but Paul Geenaway, who has been chipping away at it over the last few weeks, eventually has got the better of it – slightly. Make no mistake, 36 points round here is an excellent score and it was easily enough to win Div A and was the best score of the day. Well played Paul!
Both Emmett White & Ken Little also did well with 34 & 33 points respectively and only for the second time here, Capt’ Bob broke 30. You’ll get there!
Rosco, who has been cut a shot already this week, shrugged it off scoring 34 points off 15 to win Div B from Gavin Perfect and Div C was won by Dave Spendley (31pts) from Tony Duthie (29pts).
Little Mod Churaiska, who has one of the longest swings imaginable, and now playing amazing golf off a handicap of 12, pocketed the entire 2’s pot. Well done Mod!
Div A (0–14)
1st Paul Greenaway (12) 36pts
2nd Emmet White (11) 34pts
3rd Ken Little ( 11) 33pts
Div B (15–19)
1st Rosco Langoulant (15) 34pts
2nd Gavin Perfect (17) 33pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (19) 31pts
Div C (20+)
1st Dave Spendley (20) 31pts
2nd Tony Duthie (20) 29pts
3rd Alan Griffith (20) 27pts
Friday, 18 July, Plutaluang - Stableford
The Outbackers were hijacked today by a couple of Kiwis, welcome to John and the boys, and some members of The Golf Club that swelled the number of players today to 21. It was yet another wonderful example of two golfing venues working together to form a very enjoyable day out.
The tricky North & West nines were the order of the day and two regulars from The Golf Club filled the top two slots: Jeff Cordeiro won with 37 points and The Golf Club Captain, John Emmerson, nicked second off of ‘our Kathy’ on count back, both with 36 points.
There were four 2’s today from Kathy Doody, Sugar Ray, Peter Barathy & Barry Chadbourn.
1st Jeff Cordeiro (12) 37pts
2nd John Emmerson (9) 36pts
3rd Kathy Doody (20) 36pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474. More information can be found on our website www. outbackgolfbar.com

First’s and third’s for David and Harvey

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
David Snell and Harvey Samuel have been regular participants at the TRGG and with other golfing organisations for some time and they often join us in our outings. They certainly have had many successes it must be said and this week was no different - hence the headline.

Harvey Samuel is all smiles after his win at Eastern Star.

At Phoenix on Tuesday David Snell won and Harvey Samuel took third, then on Saturday at Eastern Star the roles were reversed with Harvey winning and David in third. In between these two outings David also won on Thursday at Plutaluang to make it a good week for him.
Tuesday, July 15, Phoenix Mountain & Ocean - Stableford
1st David Snell (12) 38pts
2nd Roger Wilkinson (15) 36pts
3rd Harvey Samuel (17) 33pts
4th Andy Robinson (10) 33pts
2’s: David Snell
Considering it is low season we had a very good turnout at Phoenix on Tuesday where we played the Mountain and Ocean course – one that is always popular with our members.
David Snell took the win by two with thirty-eight points from Roger Wilkinson, who is always thereabouts but cannot seem to find the win. Harvey Samuel was third on thirty-three.
David also produced the only ‘2’ on the day to back up his win.
Thursday, July 17, Plutaluang North & West – Stableford
1st David Snell (12) 36pts
2nd Fergus Brennan (9) 35pts
3rd Billy Fitzgerald (17) 35pts
4th Gunnar Vangsnes (25) 35pts
Thursday at Plutaluang and David Snell was there again with a win, but by only the one shot this time from Fergus Brennan and Billy Fitzgerald who both scored thirty-five points each with Fergus just taking the second spot on count back.
There were no 2’s recorded and they seem to be hard to come by these days. I am not sure why.
Saturday, July 19, Eastern Star - Stableford
1st Harvey Samuel (17) 35pts
2nd Alan Evans (24) 34pts
3rd David Snell (10) 31pts
4th Peter Morris (24) 30pts
Saturday was our regular weekend visit to Eastern Star and the day most definitely belonged to Harvey Samuel with his thirty-five points for the win, although granted it was only the one up on Alan Evans in second. David Snell could only manage third on this occasion with thirty-one and fourth spot went to Peter Morris with thirty points.
Once again there were no 2’s so the bell was rang back at the Travellers Rest for all in attendance.

Course work continues at Plutaluang

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, 07 July, Green Valley –Stableford
A very pleasant day of golf was had at Green Valley on Monday where the course was in excellent condition and presented in a tidy manner. It was also fully booked but we arrived in good time and were able to tee-off 20 minutes early.

Bruce Lawrence scored a level par round 36 points at Plutaluang.

Martyn Topham won the day with 37 points, ahead of Sid Ottaway in second with 34 point and in third was Ted Morris on count back from Henry O’Brien, both with 31 points.
Thursday, 10 July, Plutaluang – Stableford
This was not a great day - it was not even a good day. In fact most people know my opinion of this course and this outing just confirmed it. We played South and East and the only good thing is that the cows had been put to bed before we played. Major work is being carried out here and at present it is a bit of a lottery as to where your ball ends up. Good shots can end up in holes, around the green it is a lottery and on the green the ball bounces all over.
Of late I have reported that the course is improving, well I was wrong on this day. Let us all hope that all this work produces a layout that is worthy of the effort put in. The people running this venue remain friendly and the restaurant still provides excellent value. ‘You pay your money and you take your chance’ - or as I say to Dave when he books this course, ‘You can’t be serious’. Still beauty is in the eye of the beholder, even if he may be blind.
The winner of the A Flight (0-17) was Bruce Lawrence with 36 points ahead of Bob Benda on 35 points and Derek Bailey on 33 points. The winner of the B Flight was Hugh O’Donnell with Per Olaf Baarli in second on 32 points and Patrick Poussier in third with 30 points. T.T.F.N.

Woody Sherwood sets top mark on the week

IPGC golf from Donovan’s

Thursday, July 17, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Mark Sherwood (4) 39pts
2nd Tom Breslin (21) 37pts
3rd Phil Mitchell (6) 37pts
2’s: Mark Sherwood
Mark “Woody” Sherwood continues to rack up exemplary rounds as his 29 point, 73 gross effort netted him sole first on the day. He also garnered the only ‘2’ on the day! Tom Breslin’s Luck O’ the Irish took his 37-point output to the silver, as the count back defeated Flipper dropped to third.
Saturday, July 19, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
Men’s Flight
1st Oddvar Rykke (17) 37pts
2nd Pete Stonebridge (18) 35pts
3rd Kevin Hamilton (19) 35pts
Ladies Flight
1st Gib Jaroenpok (32) 31pts
2’s: Ray Dell
That’s the Hat trick for the Tentmaker (or should it be Hatmaker) as he makes it three Saturday’s in a row. Oddvar was three points in front of the tandem of the Headmaster and Big Kevin.
While Kevin showed fine form in his return to play his count back skills had diminished as Peter prevailed for second. Gib took the Ladies despite a modest 31 points. Raymond Dell had the day’s only 2!

Maiden victory for Wichai

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

A large field representing ten different nationalities turned out for the Pattaya Golf Society’s weekly Sunday stableford competition at Eastern Star on 13 July. The course continues to be in good condition and the temporary greens are standing up well to their use.
Recently this course has been a tough one to master and on this day it was no exception with only one player breaking par. In fourth place was the OK Corral host, Mr. Denis who once again showed his credentials with a respectable 33 points. He was one point behind American Ted Gardner whose 34 points was also a satisfactory and patient achievement. In second was Len Jones, slowly rediscovering some consistency after some good rounds recently, and it should have been much better but for a double “blob” start and only one point from the final two holes. The winner was the fine Thai golfer Wichai Tananusorn whose 37 points was the best of the day by a long way and which gave him his maiden win with the PGS.
The only birdie ‘2’ was scored with a chip-in on the seventeenth by Shuichi Kodaka, his smile at the presentation reflecting the size of the pot.
Chris Voller’s card was the only nil-return of the day and his excuse that it had been eaten by some mythical creature lurking at the far end of the course cut no ice with the organiser and his imagination was rewarded with the Booby Bevy. Sunday golf with the OK Corral continues to be very popular so come along and sign up for a good golfing day out with fine company.
Thorne turns up trumps
Tuesday, 15 July, the Pattaya Golf Society enjoyed the challenge of a stableford competition at The Emerald whilst the group was also simultaneously represented in a Pattaya International Matchplay League fixture against Lewiinski’s. A headache for the organisers, naturally, but such is golf in Pattaya.
The Emerald has improved significantly over the last few weeks and the good news is that the greens are almost back to their tantalising best after the vicious coring of a few weeks ago. So the course was set for a fine day’s golf.
In the “B” feature Tony Thorne took the win with a level-par 36 points, one point ahead of David Thomas, on 35 and a three-way split for third place with Erik Antonnen, Bill Pickersgill and “Kermit” of Ban Chang sharing the minor honours.
Ken Deringer took the day’s only birdie ‘2’ with a fine effort on the thirteenth. Tony Thorne took the Booby Bevy for later taking a good book into a Ban Chang bar. Nothing else to do apparently!
The matchplay event was a tense affair and after seven of the eight ties had been completed the score stood at three and a half points each. The outstanding round of the day was that of Mark Wood, the Lewiinski’s man shooting a gross 74 in his tie with Chris Voller. The final tie saw Evan Millar and Benn Nelson on the seventeenth with Benn lying one up. Evan, winner of both his ties so far this season, had a chip and a putt for a half to take the tie to the final hole but the golfing gods deserted him this time and Ben took the hole to win 2 and 1, giving a relieved Lewiinski’s the narrowest of victories in the match.
Full results: (OK Corral names first): “Kermit” of Ban Chang all square with Bob Newell; David Thomas won 2-up against Jack Spencer; Chris Voller lost 4 & 3 to Mark Wood; Erik Antonnen won 3 & 1 against Pat Regan; Tony Thorne won 3 & 1 against Seamus Cotter; Ken Deringer lost 4 & 3 to Peter Henshaw; Bill Quon lost 5 & 4 to Chaten Patel; Evan Millar lost 2 & 1 to Benn Nelson.
Clinical Kazu
claims win
The second round of the Pattaya Golf Society’s eclectic challenge at The Emerald took place on Thursday, 17 July, and found only seven players still in contention.
The day was to throw up many surprises as first of all David Thomas played one-under “off the sticks” to set himself up for a possible sub-par gross but the mind game was too tough to handle, finishing as he did with a gross 78 for 35 points and a share of third place with John Rehm, whose own score was a fine reward for some strong golf.
In second place on the day was Erik Antonnen, ending a good week with 37 points but trailing the winner, Kazu Agune, who played his best round again recording 40 points. Such was his second day showing that he shot up the eclectic leaderboard to finish second with 44 points, one behind Erik and his 45-point score.
The day’s only birdie ‘2’ was shot by David Thomas on the seventh and it provided him with an substantial rolled over purse. The Booby Bevy went by way of a welcome to Chris Field and Pat Adland who had started the week playing with Lewiinski’s but sharing a four-ball with two OK golfers, and who ended it with a good day’s golf with their new found friends. It’s what we’re all about at the OK Corral.

Caddyshack still top with 5 games to go

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Monday, 14 July, Crystal Bay – Stableford
Today the venue was to be the very well presented course of Crystal Bay, or it could even be changing its name to Panya again? All the road signs still say Crystal Bay but now on the grand entrance it says Panya.
Whatever the name, we found the course to be virtually empty and it was in good shape. The format of the day was to be stableford and both the day and the competition turned out to be very hot,
Bernard Channing played the round of his life for his first sub-par score of 37 points but this was still only good enough for third place. Keith Fortt, having had a 7-month lay off from golf also played a great round scoring 16 points on the front nine and a very strong 23 points on the back for a total of 39 points and second place. Up front Damien Trant’s gross 75 (net 66) gave him a massive 43 points off his 10 handicap to take the victory.
Matchplay Golf League - Wednesday, 16th July, Greenwood A & B
Today was the home game for Caddyshack against Tropical Bert’s in the MBMG inter bar Matchplay League. There had been a lot of pre-match talk between both teams and it was no secret that all the other teams at the top were cheering for Tropical Bert’s. The Caddyshack has gained a strong reputation as having a very strong matchplay team and are very hard to beat, as the league table shows, and have only suffered one defeat all season.
Monday’s stableford winner Damien Trant must be one of the most feared players in this competition, with an unblemished record of never losing a single match. He was paired up against P. McNeely and gave him 3 shots, but he kept his unbeaten run going with a 2-up win.
Jeff North, who is another strong matchplay competitor for The Caddyshack was playing against A. Peterson and they were all level going up the 18th fairway but Jeff took the final hole for the win. Clive Bruce for The Caddyshack beat D. Brook in a very close match by the score of one- up and Archie Armstrong had a convincing win over M. O’Meara (3-up).
The first player to come in victorious for Tropical Bert’s was S. Hampstead, beating V. Smyth by as score of 2-up. But the wins just kept piling in for the Caddyshack with Graham Beaumont winning 4-up against P. Walberg and team captain Peter Henderson winning 3-up against E. Pilkington.
P. Barnsley put another point on the board for Tropical Bert’s, 3-up over Roger Moore, as did J Flor with a big 4-up win against Ramsay Smith. Ian Covill for the Caddyshack was the last in with a 4-up victory against T. Cotton.
The final result score was 7-3 to The Caddyshack, a result that firmly consolidates their position at the top of the table. Can they be caught with only five games left to play?

The Caddyshack team line up before their match against Tropical Bert’s.

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

Like no other sport boxing is fueled on a day-by-day basis with rumors, speculation, sometimes fact and just plain gossip. With that stated it’s time for a trip to the ‘Three Dot Lounge’ where the “likker” and the “buff stuff” flows and never is heard a discouraging word. Three Dots (…) which means let’s move.
The WBC board of directors, as predicted, “voted” to do almost nothing in regard to the WBC super-feather title. Soto-Lorenzo was declared no contest... They must fight again when Soto’s medical suspension is up... Soto is fined $2,000 for “unsportsmanlike actions which were successful in influencing the referee’s decision.”… If Manny Pacquiao keeps his super feather title (which he has already said he won’t) then he must fight Soto with the winner fighting Lorenzo… think the referee will work at WBC fights?
Next up for Kelly Pavlik is probably washed up Bernard Hopkins on October 18 at the Boardwalk in Atlantic City at 170lbs. Nice career move Kelly… A new name has emerged for Oscar De La Hoya’s final fight on December 6. If you believe promoter Bob Arum, shame on you, it’s either Manny Pacquiao or Miguel Cotto. Take neither on the board of choices…
Come Sunday
Miguel Cotto with a record of 32-0 should be one of the best-known names in boxing. Little kids everywhere should be “playing Cotto.” That’s not the case.
The likeable Puerto Rican has almost fought in the shadows with his name unknown to most sports fans. His problem is that while making lots of money he’s had few if any challenges in the ring that demand headlines. His opponents have been chosen with a care to protect a maybe “fragile chin.”
If one buys into the “Mayweather jr. world,” there aren’t a lot of good fighters in this division. “If Mayweather is retired, it’s alright. We have a lot of big names at 147 pounds,” said Cotto. “He disappears from the list and another replaces him.”
Cotto’s opponent Sunday in Las Vegas, Antonio Margarito (36-5) has probably fought a higher level of opponent than has Cotto. The only question here is can he take Cotto’s body attack while providing the power to put Cotto on the deck more than once?
Probably the best welterweight today is Paul Williams (34-1) who Margarito took the distance before losing a UD. Williams-Cotto would be great but that’s not what’s on deck. The Las Vegas odds guys, who get it right more times than they get it wrong, have Cotto a big favorite.
Jeeves Jives
If the London Telegraph can be believed, then Joe Calzaghe will next fight Roy Jones jr. in Madison Square Garden. A spy in the Calzaghe camp says the fight is “99% sure.” One has the feeling that this “99% sure” is like your Teelock’s “100% sure.” To that end Calzaghe has relinquished the WBO super-middleweight title he defended 22 times until after the Jones fight. Then one assumes he’ll “un relinquish it” making the swell folks at the WBO dance for or with Joy.
Too bad ole Joe has decided to go on a retirement tour rather than actually face someone that can fight. The Calzaghe camp probably considered that with his “pitty pat” punches having almost no effect on blown up super-middleweight Bernard Hopkins, they best search the old folks home for a big payday.
Another boxer that has found a soft opponent and a good payday is Ricky Hatton. The Manchester Evening News is reporting that a new trainer may be in place when he faces Paulie Malignaggi on November 22 in Las Vegas. Long time trainer Billy Graham has seen Ricky’s brother Mathew leave for another gym.
“I will sit down with Matthew and my dad and have a good chat about it,” said Hatton. “I will take my time and make a decision, and should be in a position to say something on it in a week or so.”
Here’s two UK guys, Calzaghe and Hatton, that are fighting opponents that are just a step away from the “shuffle board court and a bowl of oatmeal.” That can’t be said for either WBO super-featherweight champion Alex Arthur (26-1) or “superstar” in waiting Amir Khan (18-0). They’ll share the MEN Arena in Manchester on September 6. Arthur will make the first defense of the title against fellow Scot, Nicky “Cookie” Cook (28-1) while Khan takes on an always tough member of the “TBA” family.”
The best of the Southeast Asian boxers may be the 41-0 Chris John from Indonesia. He makes his 10th title defense Saturday in Jakarta against Aussie Jackson Asiku (22-3). The lad from the ‘Land of Olivia Newton John’ is in over his head but may get a nice payday. A win by John, as expected, will mean a mandatory defense against Hiroyuki Enoki early in October in Japan.
“Chris John has always complied with his mandatory obligations, something that is very rare with other champions and to prove that he has fought Derrick ‘Smoke’ Gainer, Juan Manuel ‘Dinamita’ Marquez, Jose ‘Cheo’ Rojas and Roinet ‘Mus’ Caballero all in successful mandatory title defenses,” said the John camp.
Back to the past
Sometimes the hype doesn’t match reality. That was apparent when Jeff Fenech squared off against Azumi Nelson at the Vodafone Arena in Melbourne.
Before the fight Fenech said, “It’s not going to be a walk in the park. You don’t get two guys by the names of Jeff Fenech and Azumah Nelson who will go out there and put anyone to shame and will never put our sport in anything but the highest regard. You’re not going to see two guys who will just walk around the ring and hope to get a hand-raising victory. We are two warriors who are both in the Hall of Fame and one of us will be knocked out.”
Twas a fight between one guy at 44 and the other at 49. It was not a walk in the park because sometimes you can see something interesting in the park. Fenech won a majority decision 96-94. One judge had it a draw.
Peter-Klitschko (maybe)… and other out of shape things
P.T. Barnum once said, “You’ll never go broke underestimating the intelligence of the sporting public.” Well he almost said that. Regardless, it’s true because if it wasn’t their wouldn’t be wrestling or the heavyweight division. There are exceptions, rare admittedly, in the heavyweight division. One of those exceptions may be the “maybe” October 11 contest between Vitali Klitschko and Samuel Peter. Why the “maybe” even though both have signed contracts? Well they’re heavyweights and one is named Klitschko.
The Brothers Klitschko have a propensity to come up with injuries prior to a fight, causing a cancellation. It used to be that many thought it was a Klitschko thing but now it seems it’s all the heavyweights from former soviet republics. Maybe something in the water?
For V. Klitshcko it will be his first ring appearance since his 8-round KO victory over Danny Williams in December of ’04. For a top-flight heavyweight Peter has been fairly busy. Following his ’05 loss to Wladimir Klitschko on points, he’s 6 and 0 after beating James Toney (twice), Jameel McCline and Oleg Maskaev. The last win gave him the WBC heavyweight title. He laid a whipping on Maskaev.
Peter, in some of his early fights, reminded a lot of people of David Tua. Hit like a mule but couldn’t move a lick. That’s what got him against W. Klitschko. Peter’s now improved to the point where he’s moved from “terrible” to “Ok”.
“Time for the first giant to fall!” said Peter. “He has already run from me many times, but now he has signed the contract. This time he must finally take his punishment like a man or get out of boxing forever.”
Already in training Peter closed with the advice, “Come and get the punishment you deserve so I can get your little brother next.”
Former WBC heavyweight champion Oleg Maskaev (34-6) who pined for the big payday against Vitali K that never materialized is back. He got blasted out by Sam Peter and now takes his traveling “medicine show” to Moscow where he’s still an attraction.
On September 6 he’ll again face Robert Hawkins (23-11). The fight will take place in a temporary ring set up in Red Square, which has been notorious for hosting fakes for years. The first time that Maskaev and Hawkins met it was 1995 with Maskaev winning by a KO. The fight will be part of a “Stars of the Ring” promotion on Moscow City Day.
“The ring for the evening will be installed directly at Red Square and an approximate number of 25,000 spectators are expected to visit the show thanks to a free entrance suggested,” said Maskaev’s handlers. How about Mashaev against rising British star David Haye? “We have only been approached one time about the fight and haven’t heard back from Haye’s representatives.”
David Haye brings a breath of fresh air to boxing. In an interview with Britain’s Setanta Sports he called today’s heavyweights “fat slobs.”
“They seem to think just because they’re heavyweights they can come in out of shape,” said Haye. “No fighter can fight as compared to when they’re in shape. These guys are very slow. The shots I’ve been hit with and hurt with, even put down by, are shots I couldn’t see, and were thrown by people who are very fast. Heavyweights don’t punch that fast. Come November you’re going to see what the future of the heavyweight division looks like.”
Results: Injun Casino
Just when you think he’s gone, James Toney (71-6-3) after failing a couple of “steroid tests”, serves his suspension and gets back in the ring. Saying he was born to fight he was back at it last week, this time at an ‘Injun’ casino in California.
It was a do or die fight for both Toney and Hashim Rahman (45-7-3) and in three short rounds they really didn’t “do” a heck of a lot and both are still alive. The fight was ‘even’ on TSR’s card when Rahman suffered a cut either by an “unintentional” head butt by Toney or a punch. Of course with Toney nothing is unintentional.
Following the 3rd round Rahman said, “I can’t see.” The doctor told the referee to stop the fight and he did. Common sense and boxing rules, utilized by TSR and boxing’s best announcer Barry Thompkins, called it a “No Contest.” After the fight was off the television the “boxing officials” of California decided that Toney was the winner because Rahman had indicated he couldn’t see before the cut was even examined, so a TKO was ruled. “Single Finger” that one out.
From the Lily Pad - Sir Frog croaks
“Stay awake from 2 until 5 a.m. to see what should have been a great boxing night? The fight Klitschko v Thompson, was better than his last one, he boxed more straight with some good right jabs. But who was that guy Thompson anyway? I never heard of him, rated #1, (31-2-19 KO’s)? Those KO wins – were they in a circus? This guy cannot box, not even give a good jab or hook. Let David Haye box Klitschko, if his boxing is as big as his mouth off course, then we gonna see real heavyweight boxing.
And now…
“Jeeves would you be good enough to find that Chaz and Dave CD with the song ‘Rabbit’ on it? Then bring in a goodly supplier of ‘attitude adjustment fluid’ as I wish you to join me. A fine cigar will top it off as we celebrate.”
“What is it Your Lordship that we are celebrating?”
“Actress Salma Hayek has called off her engagement to a French billionaire. That means I’m back in the running.”
“I didn’t know you were ‘that way’ with Ms. Hayek?”
“I’m not Jeeves, but at least now I’ve got a chance.”

League of Legends –Round 4

Howie Reed
There is no secret that the League of Legends was formed using Misters Bobby George, Eric Bristow and John Lowe as the base. They are true legends.

Keith Deller in action against Eric Bristow. (Photo/Betfred.com)
Well collectively these “true legends” stunk the joint out at the Batley Frontier Club in Yorkshire last Friday night. Their play was dreadful as they managed to win only 5 of 28 legs played. Only George led any match and that only briefly.
In post match interviews George and Bristow were “boorish,” giving the indication that this League of Legends deal was just another payday. In light of full discloser, the Evison 7-1 dismantling of Mr. Lowe was not shown on television, nor were any post match comments.
Next year the three “legends” will be touring UK theaters along with comedian Duncan Norvell. As money, more than actual sport, seems to be the object, the ‘Old Dart Coach’ would humbly suggest that the comedian not be included because the legends playing darts would probably be funny enough if their efforts weren’t so pathetic. Maybe add a seal that juggles beach balls while playing “Hava Nagila” on the Kazoo.
Peter Evison 7 v John Lowe 1
One has got to wonder why John Lowe would spend the afternoon making a personal appearance at the Batley Frontier Club in Yorkshire when his biggest match of the Legends was hours away. It was rumored that Lowe played well in the afternoon, which made little difference: He was eviscerated by Peter Evison 7-1.

Peter Evison celebrates his 7-1 “demolition” of John Lowe at the Batley Frontier Club in Yorkshire, Friday, July 18, 2008. (Photo/Betfred.com)

Lowe had the “nuts” in the first leg which he wasted but did come back to level the match after 2. After that it was all Evison.
“I was quite shocked at the way John played,” said Evison. “I thought it would be a much harder game. John threw away the first leg but when he won the second I thought it was going to be a real contest.”
The win moved Evison into a tie for second in the points table with Bob Anderson and Keith Deller. Next up for Evison is Eric Bristow, so he’s got a stroll in the park on deck
Cliff Lazarenko 7 v Bobby George 3
One of the feel good stories from Batley was the play of “Big” Cliff Lazarenko. Cliff was coming off a 7-2 blowout against Bob Anderson where he didn’t appear ready to compete. What a difference a few weeks makes.
With the match tied at 1-1 Cliff had the first shot at 60, which he busted with one dart. With 36, George won the leg with a double 8. Cliff won leg 4 to pull level at 2. The 5th leg was vintage Lazarenko. He opened with 3 tons followed with a 41 to leave 160. His first two darts found the treble 20 and the third ‘hit the wire’ of double tops. He converted next trip to the oche’ with 1 dart.
George got it to 4-3 later with a 16-darter. Lazarenko though won the next three legs for the 7-3 win.
Keith Deller 7 v  Eric Bristow 1
Just a few weeks ago Bristow said, “He (Deller) will never beat me.” At the time the ‘Old Dart Coach’ said, “That must be your *** talking cause your head knows better.”
Deller didn’t beat him as much as he “kicked Bristow’s butt.”
This may have been the smartest played match of the day. Deller, as he admitted, didn’t play well but he played smart. There is an old adage (well there are no young adages), “Give yourself a chance to win.” That’s what Deller did.
He gave himself doubles avoiding the silly dart that didn’t leave an out. After the match Bristow claimed that had he hit the 160 out in leg 2 things would have been different. The fact is that Bristow didn’t score before the miss or after. “Even a blind pig finds an acorn on occasion.”
At 4-1 down Bristow gave up as Deller rolled. The win moved Deller into joint second with Bob Anderson who he plays next out.
Dave Whitcombe 6 v Bob Anderson 6
It’s too bad that when the format was announced, a “tie breaker” wasn’t included. In fact the ‘Old Dart Coach’ suggested that one additional leg be played with the players going for the bull to see who threw first.
Said ‘Old Dart Coach’ was told to go “far away and multiply”, as that’s the way we do it in football.” Well La Te Da, replied the ‘Old Dart Coach.’
This match could have well turned into a route by Whitcombe when he was up 4-2. In leg 7 Whitcombe withstood a T80 by Anderson to leave himself 64, with three darts while Anderson was at 40. Playing smart to ensure a double, Whitcombe chose to throw for 16’s. Whoops. T16 and a bust which presented Anderson with the opportunity to make 40 go bye-bye. He did with his third dart. That made it 4-3 as opposed to 5-2. Needless to say, if you are Whitcombe being up 5-2 is better than 4-3
Anderson tied the match at 4-4 with a neat 16-darter of T, 60, T, T24 to leave 17 which disappeared with a 1 followed by double 8. Anderson took his only lead after leg 9. The Limestone Cowboy used T05, T40, T, T40 to leave 16 and one dart in double 8 for a classy 13-darter and a 5-4 lead. Whitcombe leveled it at 5 in a sloppy game that saw both players miss doubles.
The last two legs of the match were well played and exciting. Whitcombe got to 6-5 with a 14-darter that included T37, T36, 96 and 92 which left 40 that evaporated with 2 darts. Anderson throwing first in the final leg had a slight advantage (256-295) after 9 and three darts in hand. Anderson then tossed a pair of Ton’s to leave 56. Whitcombe cranked it up at this point with T34, T37 to leave 24. Old adage say, “If you have 56 and three darts is better than 24 and no darts.” Anderson got the draw with a 16, double tops.
Post match comments differed. “I’m delighted to have got a draw because Dave performed better than I did. He didn’t miss anywhere near as many doubles as me. He scored better and was consistent whereas I was in and out. When I came good I came very good, but in between I was less than good,” said Anderson.
Whitcombe’s answer? “I must have been playing a different game. I think it was pretty even because we both had good and bad legs and missed doubles. But it was a good game.”

New 30-Week league gets underway

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

The ‘Future Team’ got a hot start in this new league with all three bowlers bowling over 500 series as they took all four points from Sala Thai: Leo bowled a 535 series, Tue a 525 and Lek had a 518 series.

200 Bowlers: Yaw, Leo and Nok.
Brother D won three points from VFW Post 9876 with Yaw leading Brother D with two 200 games and a 513 series. Joe bowled a 566 series to lead Canada to a three-point win over Montana and Café Kronborg took three from House of the Golden Coin.
Nok and Su both bowled a 520 series to lead SaBai SaBai Friday to a three-point win over Montgomery. Jack Tar and Café Ole split their series with each team getting two points. Dang had a 512 series for Jack Tar and P.K. rolled a 511 for Café Ole.

The Pro’s team take a beating

The 2008 Bill Maitland Memorial lawn bowls tournament

Barry Hooper
The Bowling Green lawn bowls club staged the 2008 Bill Maitland Memorial Trophy tournament over the weekend 18-20 July.

The winning team, Sing, Steve and Robin being presented with The Bill Maitland Memorial Trophy by Reg (far right).

Bill Maitland was the original No 1 member when the club was first formed back in 2000. Bill unfortunately died a year later in 2001. His family presented a memorial trophy to the club and an annual competition was started. Unfortunately there was no event in 2007 but one was organised for this year.
The tournament was a triples format with each match played over eighteen ends. Twenty-four bowlers of various levels of skill took part and they were seeded into three groups and in a free draw eight teams of three players were formed.
Play started on the Friday, July 18 with two sections of four teams playing each other once. Eventually the top two teams were found from each section and they then played each other again on Saturday to secure four teams for the semi finals and finals on Sunday
The start of play on the final day was delayed due to heavy overnight rain. The two teams consisting of David the Pro, Bank and Rob met Robin, Steve and Sing in the final.
Robin’s team came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders and had a nine to nil lead after three ends. Robin and his fellow players continued to keep piling on the points and ‘the Pro’ found his team at eighteen-four down at the seventh end.
But to be fair they dug in and won the next three ends but only scored one point at each end. Robin, Steve and Sing just would not let them secure any large point ends and catch up was the order of the day.
At the thirteenth end the jack was taken to the ditch by Sing and a toucher wood went to the edge of the rink. Robin, with his first delivery, succeeded in putting this wood next to the jack. The score at the fourteenth end went up to twenty-two to eight.
This was how things progressed and it seemed that what ever ‘the Pro’ and his team did they could not close the gap. Eventually a couple of double point ends were obtained but it was a case of too little too late.
The match was conceded at the penultimate end when it was obvious that ‘the Pro’s’ team could not possibly win. The final score was twenty-three to twelve to Robin, Steve and Sing.
After all present had consumed the food that had been prepared by the management of the club, event organiser Reg presented the memorial trophy to the winning team. Thanks were offered to all the participants and the club staff for making the event a fair and very successful weekend of bowls.